§ Mr. Chris Smithasked the Paymaster General on what date he now expects the Open College (College of the Air) to (a) begin enrolling students and (b) start broadcasting; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TrippierThe Open College (the agreed name for what was initially known as the College of the Air) will begin operations (including broadcasting) in September 1987. The detailed arrangements for enrolling students, including timing, are still under consideration. These and other aspects of the college's programme will be announced in due course.
§ Mr. Chris Smithasked the Paymaster General what funds have so far been made available to the Open College (College of the Air), either directly from Government funds or through the Manpower Services Commission; what public funds are anticipated to be required for the Open College for the remainder of this financial year; and what funds have so far been made available from private sources.
§ Mr. TrippierWhile its own staff are being recruited, preparations for the launch of the college are being undertaken by staff of the Manpower Services Commission under the guidance of the college chairman. As yet MSC staff costs represent the only significant element of expenditure on this project. The precise level of expenditure on the college this financial year and in succeeding years will depend on the outcome of the detailed planning and discussions which are now in progress. However, I am pleased to say that the indications so far are that there is substantial private sector interest in sponsoring or otherwise supporting the college's activities.
§ Mr. Chris Smithasked the Paymaster General who determined the level of salary proposed for the chief executive of the Open College (College of the Air).
§ Mr. TrippierThe chairman of the Open College was advised by independent recruitment consultants that this level of remuneration would need to be offered in order to attract applicants of the required calibre and experience.